Since my last post concerning the NBA, the flurry of trades, re-signing and free agent pickups has continued. In addition to the obvious winners (Clippers, Mavericks, Knicks), many teams have taken advantage of new rules and a jam packed free agent market to augment their rosters. In fact, I'd say its great for the NBA, as the very nature of the league seems to be shifting. The reigning champions have shaken up their roster, along with several of the perennial power teams like the Lakers, Celtics and the Knicks.
After seeing several of these new look teams in action, It seems to me that the Clippers could be serious contenders in the West, as well as the Heat and the Knicks in the East. Without Phil Jackson at the helm and with Kobe Bryant's health in serious decline, coupled with the loss of important sixth man Lamar Odom, the Lakers seem all too vulnerable this season and could have relinquished their status as the best team in L.A. The Heat, I believe, will benefit from a reduced media following and significantly less scrutiny as they look to build on the success of last season. Adding depth on the front line has been the most significant need for Miami, and with newcomer Eddy Curry they may have found that missing piece.
And last but not least, the Knicks. The Knicks added a very solid piece to their team by signing free agent center Tyson Chandler, and in doing so removed a pivotal piece from the championship Mavericks. They also attained great point guard depth by signing Baron Davis and Mike Bibby to add to their great core of Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire.
A few other quick notes:
Boston did well this offseason. They traded away Glen "Big Baby" Davis for Brandon Bass, a cheaper (and better) player, as well as acquired a lot of great depth throughout their roster. Losing Jeff Green for the season was unfortunate, but as is always the case, someone will step up.
As a Pistons fan, this team continues to befuddle me and give me more and more reasons to not watch them anymore. SG Richard Hamilton is the latest and one of the last players from that 2004 championship team to leave Detroit, with Tayshaun Prince being the last. I'll never know what the front office saw wrong from that team, but several awful years later and I'm wishing to be back in the old days.
There are still a lot of free agents to sign around the league, as well as a few possible trades that could affect this season in a big way. Make sure you keep checking back for the latest news and my take on where each trade or signing leaves the team that made it.
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